Sub $20k AWD DD

[ChiLAX]

After moving into my apartment, it's become clear that the Mustang isn't going to cut it once winter hits. I'd like to get something that will handle the snow a little better, as well as be more forgiving in traffic. Looked at some 2009ish A4 Quattros, 2011 Infiniti G37x's, and Subaru Legacies. Anybody have an idea of a reliable car with AWD that doesn't cost an arm and a leg to maintain? Looking in the 15-20k price range, preferably something that doesn't have a ton of miles.

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[Turk]

WRX?

 

[ChiLAX]

I considered them, but I'd assume it would be rolling the dice trying to find one that hasn't been fucked up by some idiot teenager. Plus I'm not saying it has to be a fast car.

 

[jason05gt]

My wife has a G37x. The VQ is bulletproof and will last literally forever. I have a buddy that literally does zero maintenance on his VQ Maxima and the engine keeps running strong.

The things that bug me with the G are:

1. Somewhat dated looking interior. The Q50 is a huge upgrade.
2. Rattles. If it’s still under warranty the dealer will work with you.
3. Transmission: The 7 speed auto programming has been upgraded multiple times. Make sure it has the most current version which fixes harsh shifting in some situations
4. Front Brakes: Warp easily. There is a TSB out if the car is under warranty to repair this.

Other than that, it’s been a great car though you will have a hard time finding a nice 2011+ G37X under 20K. If they are priced cheap, make sure to look at the history. Infiniti dealerships use G37’s as loaner cars.

 

[ChiLAX]

Great, thanks for the input!

 

[SRT41320]

I considered them, but I'd assume it would be rolling the dice trying to find one that hasn't been fucked up by some idiot teenager. Plus I'm not saying it has to be a fast car.

For $15-20k you can easily get one that's not beat... Hell you could even get an sti - those hardly have any issues... I would look at an 09+ wrx and would not worry - also look into Forrester XT - basically just a taller wrx but most people don't mod them

 

[syP]

is there a reason you wont just put snow tires on the mustang? its a mustang, it can handle snow just fine with snow tires

 

[Donnie]

For $15-20k you can easily get one that's not beat... Hell you could even get an sti - those hardly have any issues... I would look at an 09+ wrx and would not worry - also look into Forrester XT - basically just a taller wrx but most people don't mod them

I'm actually talking to a couple of our used sales guys that owe me some favors or are tight with me on his behalf tomorrow. We've got a lot packed with late model scoobs and skyactives they're dying to clear out.

 

[Intel]

is there a reason you wont just put snow tires on the mustang? its a mustang, it can handle snow just fine with snow tires

Was going to say I had snow tires on the Mazda 3 and I was beating my roommates legacy out of the alleys.

 

[syP]

had plenty of friends in highschool run snow tires and had absolutely no issues with it. they actually get out of the hole very well on snows.

 

[SRT41320]

Was going to say I had snow tires on the Mazda 3 and I was beating my roommates legacy out of the alleys.

had plenty of friends in highschool run snow tires and had absolutely no issues with it. they actually get out of the hole very well on snows.

It's not even Just about out of the hole traction... Stopping and turning are 10x better with snow tires... I always thought it was BS until I had a set on my old civic... Then I put a set on my old Forrester... Night and day difference!

 

[Pewter-Camaro]

Snow tires are great. Thats is how I've been driving Z28 Camaro's all year around since 1995. Car just plows though snow, turns, and stops better than cars either Wrong wheel drive or AWD cars with shitty all season tires. Really the best inexpensive AWD systems are the Suby's and It doesn't have to be a WRX either. You can get a normal Impreza.

 

[VenomInside]

Dude, I drove my 600rwhp Cobra in the snow with snow tires for a few winters.

If I can do it, so can you.

 

[sickmint79]

legacy gt is a nice car.

i always do winter tires anyway.

 

[ChiLAX]

The major issue is the entrance to the alley, which is shaped like a valley of assholes, lined with parked cars. But after the moving truck next door moved, there's another way out that isn't quite as awful. I guess I'll try to find some snow tires for my 19's and go that route for now.

 

[sickmint79]

19s seem like they'd limit your selection a lot. you want skinny rubber. probably ideally smallest wheels that clear your calipers.

 

[SRT41320]

Can't you drop down a size to 18s

 

[Donnie]

He's got the Brembos. Not sure if that leaves any wiggle room for him.

 

[jason05gt]

I drove through 5 winter on my Mustang. Never had an issue with even being lowered due to snow tires. My Mustang was better in the snow than my wife's AWD G. True story..

 

[wombat]

Montego

minty as fuck

 

[uvacarbuff]

If you are worried about winter, get a dedicated 4WD beater.

My 2006 modded Audi S4 wagon still was tricky this past winter despite having snow tires. It was lowered and the snow would just pack in the fenders and traction was non existent.